American Toad

Description:

The eastern American toad is a medium-sized toad usually ranging in size from 5–9 cm (2.0–3.5 in) The color and pattern is somewhat variable. Skin color can change depending on humidity, stress, and temperature. Colors range from yellow to brown to black.

Notes:

**** Not to scare anyone, but a word of caution about handling toads**** Toads have enlarged glands (called the paratoid glands) on the side of the neck, one behind each eye. These glands secrete a viscous white poison that gets smeared in the mouth of any would-be predator, inflaming the mouth and throat and causing nausea, irregular heart beat, and, in very very rare cases, death. Toads can pose a danger to small pets, which may pounce on and bite them. If you handle a toad you should take care to wash your hands after handling a toad, and to avoid touching your mouth or eyes until having done so.

I have photographed a few toads, and even more owls, Karen. I am not sure I would know what either of them looked like if they were happy. Each of them always looks a bit angry or slightly upset to me. Can you point me to a photo of a happy toad?